United States of America

Kerckhoff 2 Power Station— 139.5 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

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Kerckhoff 2 Power Station, with a generation capacity of 139.5 MW, holds the 1756th position among 10,047 power generation facilities in the United States, making it a notable yet small contributor in a vast energy landscape. It ranks as the 147th largest hydroelectric facility in a country where gas dominates the energy mix. Despite its modest output, Kerckhoff 2 represents a critical 0.01% of the total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, highlighting the importance of diverse energy sources in maintaining grid reliability. This hydroelectric facility utilizes advanced technology to convert the potential energy of flowing water into electricity, harnessing a renewable resource that is vital for reducing carbon emissions. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada region, Kerckhoff 2 benefits from the abundant water supply, ensuring a consistent energy output while contributing positively to the environment. In the immediate vicinity, Kerckhoff 2 is part of a network of hydroelectric power plants, including J S Eastwood (199.8 MW), Mammoth Pool (190 MW), Big Creek 3 (174.5 MW), and Pine Flat (165 MW). Collectively, these facilities provide a synergistic effect on the local energy grid, enabling a more balanced energy supply. However, the regional reliance on gas-fired plants underscores the ongoing transition in the U.S. energy sector, where hydroelectric power can serve as a necessary counterbalance to fossil fuel dependence. The energy profile of the United States is heavily skewed towards gas, which is the predominant fuel among the 10,047 plants. While hydroelectric power accounts for a smaller fraction of the overall capacity, its contribution is crucial for achieving national objectives related to renewable energy utilization and emissions reduction. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Kerckhoff 2 Power Station has been in operation since 1983, maintaining its relevance over decades of energy evolution in California. As the U.S. moves toward a cleaner energy future, the role of hydroelectric plants like Kerckhoff 2 is expected to expand. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, this facility stands to play a pivotal role in enhancing the reliability of the energy grid while supporting environmental protection initiatives.